Rehabilitation: A Crucial and Often Overlooked Aspect of Training

Rehabilitation: A Crucial and Often Overlooked Aspect of Training

Krav Maga is a form of martial arts that is suitable for individuals of any age or physical condition. While this phrase is a popular marketing slogan, it is important to understand its true meaning beyond the promotional aspect. Our training facilities cater to a diverse group of individuals, with varying levels of strength, talent, and physical ability. Our goal as trainers is to provide an inclusive environment where everyone can learn and progress. We understand that some individuals may require physical rehabilitation or mental preparation before they can participate fully in our programs. As such, we offer a range of services and personalized attention to ensure that every camper is able to develop their skills and reach their full potential.Upon my return to Israel in 2006 after spending several years in China. At the early years of my return, I established my own gym and initiated projects in the security forces. During those years I studied the therapeutic aspects of rehabilitation through extensive coursework at two colleges. Specifically, my studies focused on rehabilitative movement, along with four years of training in movement therapy and physical psychotherapy.

Rehabilitation training is a highly significant yet often undervalued aspect of training. Today our gym in Israel offers a wide variety of training that are designed to cater to the unique needs and goals of our clients. Our programs are tailored to meet the needs of various individuals and groups, including competitive athletes, security forces, and trainees who come to get stronger to learn and simply be part of a community. Additionally, we offer rehabilitation training for individuals who are recovering from injuries, medical procedures, or PTSD. Our training programs are also designed to provide emotional support to individuals who require it, helping them to regain their physical and mental strength in a safe and supportive environment. In this article, we will explore the art of rehabilitation training and how it can transform lives by looking at different aspects of the process.

Our training programs cater to a diverse group of individuals, including veterans with PTSD, athletes recovering from injuries, and older individuals before or after a medical procedure. Many of these trainees initially joined with the goal of achieving a specific functional outcome. However, as they progressed, they realized the benefits of incorporating training into their daily routines. Our training facilities offer personalized attention and specialized programs that help individuals achieve their goals and improve their overall health and well-being. We understand that each trainee's journey is unique, and our trainers are committed to providing support and guidance every step of the way.

 I had the opportunity to work with a gentleman who had experienced a car accident and was struggling to engage in physical activity due to the severe shock he had endured. He was also dealing with significant mental weakness due to the disparity between his prior physical condition and his current state. To begin his treatment, we focused on his strengths, such as increasing his squat and chest press weights, strengthening his abdomen, and incorporating basic boxing workouts to improve his cardiovascular health. As we progressed, we addressed underlying issues and aimed to achieve a level of functioning that exceeded his pre-injury state. While there were challenges throughout the process, establishing a positive working foundation during the initial stages of the rehabilitation process allowed us to persevere through difficult times.

As a coach and accomplished athlete, I have undergone my own rehabilitation process following a back injury sustained during wrestling and powerlifting. The journey was arduous, and I encountered several mental challenges while striving to regain my former level of physical fitness. However, I gradually achieved this through multiple intermediate stages, such as the attainment of a high muscle mass in my back, which allowed me to perform more challenging activities. This journey served as an inspiration for me to set my sights higher and push beyond my former limits, aiming to become a better version of myself. 

The Importance of Having a Clear Plan-

Rehabilitation training requires a clear and well-planned route to achieve desired goals. Just like navigation, it is essential to have a starting point and a destination in mind. By taking the time to identify where we are and where we want to go, we can develop a plan that will guide us towards our desired outcome.

As the famous Trappist monk Thomas Merton once said, "The greatest need of our time is to clean out the enormous mass of mental and emotional rubbish that clutters our minds." To achieve this, it is crucial to set clear and specific goals that help to remove the mental and emotional clutter.

Effective rehabilitation requires a strong working infrastructure with the trainee. Often, individuals come to rehabilitation training with a sense of defeat and lack of self-confidence due to previous failures. By focusing on their strengths, we can create a positive and robust foundation to work from, which can help rebuild their confidence.

Gradual Progression

When a trainee arrives after a serious injury and a prolonged period of physical inactivity, it is crucial to celebrate small victories before reaching the ultimate goal. The initial stage of rehabilitation may involve gradual development in weight-bearing exercises, basic coordination practice, and improvement of hand-eye and eye-foot coordination. By focusing on these foundational elements, we can establish a strong basis for achieving more ambitious goals. Our personalized approach ensures that each trainee receives the attention and guidance needed to progress safely and effectively. As the trainee continues to develop and gain confidence, we work collaboratively to tailor their program to meet their evolving needs and aspirations.

Effective rehabilitation involves breaking down the difficulty gradually, rather than trying to tackle it all at once. We need to establish smaller goals that act as stepping stones towards the bigger picture. This gradual progression allows the trainee to build confidence and momentum, leading to more significant successes over time.

Overcoming Psychological Trauma

Rehabilitation can be a crucial tool for individuals dealing with PTSD. It is essential to create a supportive and safe environment where individuals can release tension and trauma. By building a solid foundation of emotional and mental support, individuals can gradually overcome their psychological trauma and begin to move forward towards their desired goals.

Rehabilitation training is an art that requires patience, skill, and perseverance. It is a crucial aspect of training that should not be overlooked or undervalued. By establishing clear goals, building a strong foundation, making gradual progress, and creating a supportive environment, individuals can achieve their desired goals and improve their quality of life. Whether you are dealing with an injury, facing psychological trauma, or striving for a better version of yourself, rehabilitation training can help you get there.